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VHL occurs in one of every 36,000 live births1 and has a penetrance in 90% of patients by age 65 years.2 Before computed tomography (CT) and other imaging modalities were developed and before the advent of comprehensive screening in affected individuals, median survival in these patients was less than 50 years. The cause of death in these patients was typically either metastases from RCC or symptoms related to CNS hemangioblastomas.3 Now with a multidisciplinary approach to these complex patients, survival rates have improved.

Genetics

VHL is an autosomal dominant disease resulting from a germline mutation in the VHL gene. The gene was first identified in 1993.4 The gene is an RCC tumor suppressor gene that has been shown to be involved in multiple functions, including regulation of angiogenesis, ubiquitination, and gatekeeper functions in mitosis.5 The gene has been localized to chromosome 3p25.5.

VHL is associated with tumors in a multitude of organs, including the kidney, adrenal gland, CNS, eye, inner ear, epididymis, and pancreas. With current imaging modalities and genetic testing, many individuals are diagnosed while still asymptomatic. The diagnosis continues to be based on clinical criteria. Individuals with a family history are considered positive for the disease if screening tests diagnose a CNS hemangioblastoma (including retinal), pheochromocytoma, or renal manifestations. Patients who are diagnosed de novo without a family history must have evidence of two or more CNS hemangioblastomas or one CNS manifestation with a visceral tumor to meet diagnostic criteria.3

Central Nervous System Lesions

Hemangioblastomas are the most common tumor found in VHL patients, affecting up to 80% of patients. The average age of presentation is 33 years.6 These lesions are always benign but may cause significant morbidity because of volume effect. These lesions may occur anywhere along the craniospinal axis and may cause swelling and symptoms based on their location along this axis.

Retina

Retinal hemangioblastomas are very common in VHL patients, occurring in 60% of patients.3 They may be multifocal or bilateral and occur early in life. The mean age of diagnosis of retinal hemangioblastomas is 25 years.3 They are benign but symptomatic and may lead to vision loss.